Berry: For democracy to work, voters must participate at polls

Changes in state laws now require Texans to show photo to vote

By Nandita Berry

Updated 7:34 pm, Friday, February 28, 2014

I wasn't born in this country. Like many others, I came in search of opportunity and a desire to pursue the famed American dream. I have worked hard to be a conscientious, contributing citizen in my adopted home of Houston, giving back and participating in my community at all levels. When I held my hand on the bible this January at the Texas capitol and was sworn in as the 109th Texas secretary of state, it was one of the most proud and humbling moments of my life.

Like many immigrants, my path to this country has afforded me a special appreciation for the democratic political process that defines our system of government and guarantees certain rights to every citizen. A vital component of that process is the active participation of the citizenry. The easiest action that we Texans can take to play an active role in shaping a government that reflects the values and diversity of our state is also the simplest: vote.

Sure, democracy is still a little messy. Winston Churchill famously said, "Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all those other forms that have been tried from time to time." But the fact is, if we want to ensure that democracy is effective for all Texans we must all do our part and participate in it. Voting is a fundamental right we, as Americans, share. I want to make sure every eligible Texan has information on how, when and where to vote. I'm passionate about making the 2014 elections as inclusive as any we've ever had and Texans across the state are working hard to make that a reality.

That's why I'm touring the state talking about important changes to Texas voting laws. The biggest change is that Texans must now show an approved photo ID when they arrive at the polls. Voters can pick any one of seven forms of approved ID:

More Information

Election Day information

For questions about elections and voting, contact the office of the Texas Secretary of State.

If you do not have one of the first six forms of ID, you can get an election identification certificate from your local DPS office - for free. One important detail to note is that if you are voting by mail, in almost all cases you will not need to present a photo ID.

Also, if the name on your approved ID is different than what appears on the state's list of registered voters, you can still vote. You'll simply be asked to initial a box.

Clearly, there are a number of options available to comply with the photo ID law, and the state is taking every possible action to make the process simple and easy. I have been traveling to every corner of the state during my first month on the job to spread the message about the important changes to Texas law. My goal is to make sure that every eligible voter knows that our office is the place to go for important questions about the voting process.

There are a variety of ways in which you can engage with us and get the information you need to vote. If you, a friend, a family member, church group or organization need information about voting, you can reach us any time.

No matter your story, whether you're a fifth generation Texan, or an immigrant like me, I hope you will do your part to contribute to the democratic process and make your voice heard. Election Day is Tuesday. Together we can all work together to ensure fair, open and honest elections for our great state.